Dremel LC40-03 40W CO2 Laser Digilab Laser Engraver & Cutter with Booster Fan, 12" x 20"

I have 12 years experience with an Epilog Zing and needed to get another laser engraver and spent about 4 weeks researching different ones. Decided on the Dremel, with a little trepidation as I didn't know as much about it as I would have liked It arrived in perfect condition, set up was straightforward and easy and I did my first test project in less than an hour. It is easy to use, sophisticated in its features and compatible with both Windows and Mac. The quality of the engraving and cutting was superb. I got a few system errors and found the lid was not closing precisely. To Dremels credit, they have two redundant safety switches to insure complete tight closure and my lid was a bit off. I contacted tech support on a Sunday, hoping to hear back within a few days. Upon awakening Monday AM, Jeff Gordon from Dremel Tech support had already emailed me back with a few questions in less than 24 hrs I responded and expected an answer by the next day, but he replied within 15 minutes and attached a Power Point detailed explanation and solution to the problem., which solved it.I value a product on two basic criteria. Quality of workmanship, ability to do the job, and responsiveness and knowledge of tech support. Had I known what the tech support was like, I would have immediately bought the Dremel 4 weeks ago, as I have other Dremel products and they are superb. Jeff Gordon and Dremel have raised the bar on how to keep customers very happy and loyal. Oh, and lest I forget, the value you get for the price you pay for this laser engraver is amazing. Compared to others I looked at carefully, this is a bargain!

I like it. For the longer version, continue...I won't restate the unpacking and setup. That has been covered well in previous reviews, and I have nothing new to add. It was intuitive and easy to do.I debated between this and another machine for a while. I went with the Dremel and am pleased with that decision. I particularly like the touch screen, "run perimeter" feature, capturing a picture of the workpiece, and machine-based software combined with the browser interface. I've been able to transfer several of my projects from my CNC to the Dremel with ease.I do wish the software had a few more manipulating features and that the software could be operated on your laptop without the Dremel being turned on. Although, there isn't really much left to do with the software at this point, since all the design work is done in other graphic programs.If you are looking at a mid-range unit (I'm considering mid-range to be $2000-$8000), then this is a good option. I can't make comparisons to other machines because I have not used them. The Dremel had the features I wanted, it appeared to be able to deliver the products I wanted to produce (and so far hasn't disappointed), and the user interface fit with my workshop and needs.

I've been working with my LC40 for the last week and am addicted. The software is quite intuitive and the setup is very easy. I wish there was more support via example projects but the exercise of learning by trial and research will likely give a better education regardless. Would recommend.

Having many hobbies and interests, including woodworking, carpentry, auto repair/restoration, I love to envision and create things for myself and for others. A family member, who is a 3D Technician Manager by profession, encouraged me to order this Dremel LC40 laser cutter.The laser cutter and external exhaust fan arrived a couple of weeks ago on a wood pallet. A quick and easy unpacking presented the laser cutter, hex box and external exhaust fan. Although, it did take 2 of us to lift it out of the box because of how heavy/solidly built this laser cutter is. The setup was straightforward in connecting hoses, wire and filling hex box with distilled water. The directions ask that the fan shroud be installed after the hex box water hoses, but I found it easier to install the fan shroud first since my laser cutter table sits against a wall with a window. The other thing that would have helped during setup is being told how much distilled water the hex box reservoir holds. I used a new gallon of distilled water and used ~1/3 of the gallon. I have included a picture of that jug here within the review.The external exhaust fan installed under the laser cutter table and included brackets, ducting and screws mounting the brackets to the fan, but did not include screws or bolts to mount the brackets to the underside of the table. I did find this 2750 CFM fan to vent the smoke from the laser cutter more quickly and efficiently than the built-in on-board fan only.I like the fact that the laser cutter has an on-board computer that can store up to 30 print projects so it can be used without a computer for the most frequent cuts or engravings. I also like how I can use any of the three computers in the house to connect, via WiFi, in preparing a laser cut by connecting to a URL that is dedicated to the laser cutter.Initial setup guided me through a step by step process outlined in the 7” touch screen of the laser cutter. I was instructed to clean and adjust the mirrors and use the included puck to set the height of the laser before completing my first cut. Also included steps for test firing with thermal paper to ensure laser tube is functioning correctly. I did like that Dremel included a sheet of acrylic so I could try the laser cutter out immediately after setup. Without connecting my computer yet, I found the test cut selections on the touch screen of the cutter. I selected the first test and ~2:30 minutes later I had depth boxes and some script on the acrylic that I could use for setting up future cuts.Since then, I have tried wood, leather and cardboard and continue to enjoy my journey in creating with the assistance of this Dremel laser cutter.ProsUL rating gives me peace of mind for safety while using this cutterOn-board computer gives me flexibility in using multiple computers without needing additional softwareBuilt-in camera stitches nine photos of laser bed for capturing image for laser cutUses PDF files in addition to others.Sleek looking and sized perfectly for hobbyist or small businessVents nicely preventing smoke out on the projects I have completed so far.Online support team available during the week (although, I have not yet needed to contact them)Laser cuts wood, anodized metal, glass, leather, cardboard, denim and moreBed is well lit with LED lightingConsHex box instructions do not disclose approx. volume of reservoir/system.External exhaust fan did not include mount screws and is not switched (needs a power strip or manually plugged/unplugged from the outlet).Lid safety switches do not always engage requiring one to hold lid down while laser cutter is operational4/12/19 - Contacted customer support today and they only had me on hold for 20 seconds before a live rep, located in Racine, WI, helped me figure out why the lid switch was not working. A simple adjustment to level the feet of laser cutter and I'm back in business. Excellent customer service!